Passengers travelling on long-distance trains through Mumbai’s Central Railway network will experience operational changes for nearly three months as major redevelopment work begins at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). From February 1 to April 26, Platforms 16 and 17 at the iconic station will remain closed as part of a large-scale infrastructure upgrade.
The 85-day traffic and power block forms a crucial phase of the Rs 2,450-crore redevelopment project aimed at modernising the terminus while strengthening structural foundations for new facilities planned under the master redevelopment plan.
According to Central Railway authorities, Platforms 16 and 17, primarily used for mail and express trains, will not handle any train movement during the closure period. Several long-distance services that typically originate or terminate at CSMT will now be short-terminated at Dadar or Thane. Six trains, including services operating from Amravati, Ballarshah, Howrah, Bhubaneswar, Bidar, Latur and Madgaon, will temporarily operate up to Dadar. Meanwhile, the Mangaluru to Mumbai express will conclude its journey at Thane until construction work is completed.
Railway officials have advised passengers to verify updated schedules in advance and make necessary travel arrangements during this period.
Authorities clarified that suburban train operations are expected to remain largely unaffected, as Platforms 16 and 17 are not part of the primary local train network. However, officials indicated that some fast suburban services may witness occasional delays. Efforts are being undertaken to maintain smooth passenger movement within the station premises during construction.
The redevelopment is being implemented by the Rail Land Development Authority, which has been instructed to ensure that construction activities do not obstruct passenger routes. Clear access corridors will be marked, and continuous announcements will assist commuters. Additional digital display boards, multilingual signages and enhanced lighting arrangements will also be introduced to improve navigation within the station.
The broader redevelopment plan aims to transform CSMT into a modern transit hub while preserving its heritage architecture. Proposed upgrades include a large integrated concourse, improved waiting areas, retail and dining zones, multi-level parking for over 700 vehicles and better platform connectivity through elevated decks and skywalks. Platform 18, which was closed earlier for related work, has already seen partial completion. Railway authorities emphasise that the temporary inconvenience is essential for long-term improvements at one of India’s busiest railway terminals.
Source: Times Property
